Singapore’s Land Transport Authority has begun testing a new footpath material designed to let trees breathe more easily beneath paved surfaces. The material, called WoodFlex, blends recycled wood chips, chipping stone and cement into a porous surface that lets air and water pass through to root systems below. The trial began in July 2026 and is being carried out jointly with the National Parks Board and a supplier from Japan.
What is WoodFlex
Unlike conventional pavement, WoodFlex is engineered to flex slightly and stay permeable, which the agencies say helps protect trees growing close to walking and cycling paths from being starved of water and oxygen at the roots. LTA described the effort in a video posted on Saturday, September 27, 2026.
Installation differs depending on where the material is being laid. In standard stretches of path, a paving machine lays and compacts the mixture. But where the path crosses over sensitive tree root zones, workers switch to manual compaction to avoid damaging the roots beneath.
Where the pilot is running
The 12 month pilot is limited to two sites: a stretch of Upper Serangoon Road near Holy Innocents’ High School, and a section of Kaki Bukit Avenue 1 close to its junction with Jalan Tenaga.
LTA framed the trial as part of a broader push toward greener infrastructure choices. “This trial is part of our ongoing efforts to explore innovative and sustainable solutions for path infrastructure, while enhancing walking and cycling connectivity and preserving existing greenery,” the authority said.
With the pilot running through mid 2027, LTA has not yet indicated what results would prompt wider adoption of the material beyond the two test locations.
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